MRI Scan

We understand that having an MRI scan could be the first step to your recovery so you don’t want to have to wait for an appointment. KIMS Hospital offers fast access to private MRI diagnostic scans.

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. MRI is now being used more widely to diagnose medical conditions throughout the body, diagnose and assess injury and monitor the progress of treatment and recovery. The MRI scanner at KIMS Hospital is a wide bore scanner, which can help if you struggle with feelings of claustrophobia.

Our expert team at KIMS Hospital offers fast access to private MRI diagnostic scans 7-days a week, including early morning and late evening appointments. Our dedicated team of radiographers work with highly experienced Radiologists to ensure we provide quality MRI scans with fast and accurate reporting.

If you already have a referral from a GP, Consultant or other qualified healthcare professional and are paying for your own scan or using your private medical insurance, why not speak to a member of our team today to book your appointment.

We are a Bupa approved specialist MRI centre and approved by all major private medical insurance companies.

Find out more about MRI scans at KIMS Hospital

Who can have an MRI scan?

Anyone can have an MRI scan, as there is no radiation involved. This includes people who are more vulnerable to the effects of radiation such as pregnant women, young children and the elderly.

However, it is not always possible for people who have certain types of implanted medical devices fitted to have an MRI scan. For example, someone fitted with a non-conditional MRI safe pacemaker would not be able to have an MRI.

In order to have an MRI scan at KIMS Hospital, you will need to have a referral from a qualified healthcare professional. It is important that the referral information is thorough, as this will allow the MRI team to tailor the scan to best suit your diagnostic needs. The healthcare professional could be your GP, your consultant, an osteopath or a physiotherapist.

How much does an MRI scan cost?

The cost of an MRI scan depends on how many areas of the body need to be looked at, this will be determined by your referring medical professional. We talk about needing a 1-part, 2-part or 3-part MRI where each ‘part’ refers to an area of the body. You will only require one appointment no matter how many body parts are required however, the length of time the scan will take increases.

For example, a 1-part MRI scan might look at the right shoulder in detail and a report produced by a Radiologist. A 2-part MRI scan might look at the right shoulder and humerus (the bone leading from the shoulder) in detail and a report is produced for both areas by a Radiologist. The team determine the most accurate scan required for you based on the details made in the referral for the MRI scan.

Costs for an MRI scan at KIMS Hospital:

1 part MRI – £420

2 part MRI – £700

3 part MRI – £900

How long does it take to have an MRI scan?

Each body part normally takes 30 minutes to scan. This means for a 3-part scan where three different areas of the body need scanning, it would take about 90mins.

What happens at my appointment?

We understand that undergoing any type of scan can be daunting and that is why our dedicated team of experienced MRI radiographers will be with you every step of the way.

1) On the day of your MRI scan appointment it is important to remember to wear minimal jewellery and simple clothing, which you can easily take off. If you can, it is best to leave your jewellery, watches and any other metal valuable items at home or with someone who would have accompanied you for your appointment. All our patients will be required to change into a comfortable hospital gown.

2) When you arrive at KIMS Hospital for your MRI scan, head directly to the Imaging and Diagnostics reception desk. One of our reception team at this desk will be waiting to welcome you. The Imaging team will ask you to complete a consent form for your scan and check that you have completed an MRI safety questionnaire. We ask that all patients, and anyone accompanying them into the MRI environment, complete these forms. If you have any questions at all please ask the receptionist who will be happy to help.

3) One of our MRI radiographers will meet you in the Imaging waiting area and take you through to our imaging suite. They will show you to one of the private changing rooms and provide you with a hospital gown to wear. If you are wearing any jewellery, watches or glasses, you will be asked to remove them as they will interfere with the pictures and can be magnetic. We can provide a locker however, we recommend that you leave your jewellery at home or with someone to look after whilst you are having your scan.

Once changed into your gown, your MRI radiographer will confirm your personal and clinical details with you. They will also explain the examination procedure and answer any questions you may have.

4) Your radiographer will take you into the MRI examination room. They will explain to you what is going to happen during the scan and make sure you are as comfortable as possible.

Unfortunately, all MRI scanners are noisy. Depending on the examination you need, you will be given either earplugs or headphones to help soften the noise. If you are offered headphones, you are welcome to choose your favourite radio station to be played during the scan or you can bring your favourite music on a CD.

Your radiographer will show you how to contact them should you need to speak to them at any point during your scan. They will also show you the room where they will be seated whilst your scan takes place.

5) When your radiographer has positioned you correctly on the scanner bed, they will leave the room. As the scan takes place they will be watching you on the scanner’s monitor and through the glass window in the adjacent room. The radiographers can hear and see you at all times. They will communicate with you throughout the examination, updating you on progress of the scan.

6) When the scan is completed, your MRI radiographer will re-enter the room, remove your ear protection and take you back to the private changing room for you to get dressed. Once you are ready, your radiographer will take you back to the Imaging and Diagnostic reception where you are free to go home.

When will I get my results?

During your MRI scan a large number of images are obtained. One of our team of consultant Radiologists will review the scans and produce a report. The majority of reports will be produced within two working days of your appointment. Kindly note, that the Radiographers who undertake your MRI scan are unable to give you any indication of the results of the scan.

Your report will be sent to your referring medical professional such as a consultant, GP or physiotherapist who will be able to give you the results of your scan. Please arrange a follow-up appointment with them.

Are there any risks or side effects?

An MRI scan is a safe and painless procedure and our team of radiographers will do all they can to reassure you and answer your questions. MRI scans do not expose the body to radiation and there is no risk posed by the use of magnetic fields or radio waves. This makes MRI scans one of the safest diagnostic imaging tools currently available.

However, it is not always possible for people who have certain types of implanted medical devices to have an MRI scan. For example, someone fitted with a non-conditional MRI safe pacemaker would not be able to have an MRI.

Paying for your private MRI scan

By paying for your own treatment, you can access prompt care at KIMS Hospital, with no waiting lists.

There are two main ways you can pay for your MRI scan:

1) Paying for your own treatment.

Paying for yourself is straightforward. There are no hidden costs and your price is fixed. You can be treated sooner, at a time to suit you.

2) Private Medical Insurance.

We are approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal medical insurance policy or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your diagnostic scan. It is important to contact your insurance provider to make sure that your possible treatment is covered by your policy and obtain an authorisation code.